Simple, robust, cost-effective control system for smaller plants

Mitsubishi and ME-Automation have launched the PMSXmicro, a control system designed specifically for use on smaller scale plants, such as renewable energy power plants. It is said to run on a single computer in an inexpensive and easily engineered package.

PMSXmicro is claimed to provide large plant levels of control with operating screens displaying status overview for an entire installation using process visuals. It has a graphical interface which shows operators details of the system and allows them to make alterations to parameters as required. It is available in two formats: a conventional tower PC with a separate 22-inch monitor, or a panel PC with an integrated 21.5 inch HD display.

The system also records events and messages securely - and in the correct sequence in a database, allowing process flows to be traced in the event of production problems or following changes to the plant.

Operators can add annotations or comments to events, which are also retained for subsequent analysis. The system includes built-in maintenance functions, as well as a range of analysis options to help operators understand process data and improve plant performance. The system is suitable for applications with around 1000 analogue or digital inputs and outputs across three to five separate automation stations.